Published: 11/17/2025 - 8:00 AM
Fitness has the power to transform lives. It helps us build confidence, improve mental health, and see ourselves in a new light. It’s about more than physical strength; it’s about feeling stronger inside and out. This story is a powerful testament to what it means to reclaim your health and take charge of your well-being.
Hassan's Story
Many Haverford Y members know him simply as “The Mayor”. Hassan Abdul-aziz arrives every morning at 5 AM for his daily 3-hour visit. "Some people say I should have a key.”
Despite knowing his face and friendly fist bumps, most people don’t know that Hassan is a walking miracle… a testament to the power of exercise to change lives.
Hassan was very unwell just a few years ago. A chef by trade, he spent his days stressed out and surrounded by food. He was diabetic, had high cholesterol, suffered from sleep apnea, and was on several medications. At 488 pounds, what seemed like a simple dizzy spell nearly killed him. “I coded. I had a heart attack and I was in the ICU for a month a half.”
Hassan decided to take his health back. Instead of the surgery doctors recommended, he joined the Y. His first year was spent on the treadmill. “I was very, very shy. I wanted to hide from people.” As he ventured around the building, he connected with Y trainers and a wide variety of classes. “It’s a whole other world upstairs.” And the results speak for themselves.
Hassan is now the outgoing, friendly fellow we all know. More importantly, his health has taken a 180-degree turn. He is no longer diabetic, has his cholesterol within normal ranges, has resolved his sleep apnea, and doctors treat him as a case study!
Hassan has a message for everyone. "I don't think there's a better gym around than the YMCA. For me, it's therapy … because after I leave here, I face the world."
Help us continue to serve our community by donating to our Financial Assistance Program. Through this program, we can offer impactful programming and membership options to anyone regardless of their ability to pay.
We believe strong communities are built by people who care about one another!